The Perfect Fish and Chips

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM--(Marketwired - Jan 16, 2014) - Most visitors venture out from their London hotels in search of the perfect batch of fish and chips. Found in the local 'chippie,' this fried fare has three main ingredients: fish, batter and potatoes. Marriott offers an informative infographic to help you understand why this simple meal is a beloved institution in Jolly Old England.

What would fish and chips be without good fish, right? In London, 85% of the fish used is either cod or haddock. Cod is the more traditional fish and is used 60% of the time. In order to prevent over-fishing of this white-fleshed fish, strict regulations governing United Kingdom waters have been enacted.

Once a fresh piece of white fish is chosen, it is battered before being fried to crispy perfection. While all batters include flour and eggs, other ingredients can vary, particularly in what liquid is added to the flour. Some simply use water, others oil or milk. And yes, some do use beer in their batter. Beer, fish and chips, after all, are a delicious and traditional pairing.

Maris Piper potatoes are widely recognized as the perfect chip-making tuber. Along with their excellent flavor, the dry and creamy flesh of Maris Piper spuds come out just right when deep fried. Other potato varieties tend to discolor when cooked. As another indicator of just how important fish and chips are to England's table, one-quarter of all potatoes produced end up as deep-fried chips.

Put together the right fish, batter and potatoes, and you have a traditional English meal that has been winning the hearts and minds of loyal Britons for decades. Before your next trip "across the pond" remember to check out Marriott hotels' infographic, and you'll be ready to indulge in one of life's little pleasures.